In the run-up to the General Election 2025, Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam is set to spearhead a new lineup for the People’s Action Party (PAP) to vie for Nee Soon Group Representation Constituency (GRC). Joining him are four political newcomers, aiming to make a significant impact on the electorate.
The fresh faces introduced for the Nee Soon GRC include former Nominated Member of Parliament Dr. Syed Harun Alhabsyi, 40; Mr. Jackson Lam, 40, a business leader in pest control and cleaning; Ms. Lee Hui Ying, 36, an employee at Temasek Foundation; and Ms. Goh Hanyan, 39, previously a director at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information.
During a press briefing held on April 21 at the PAP’s Chong Pang branch, Mr. Shanmugam expressed his confidence in the newly formed team, praising their blend of youthful energy, diverse experiences, and the promise they hold for potential governmental roles. “This is a, I would say, very balanced, but very young, youthful slate – except for me – because there is a mix of skills and talents: two potential office-holders who can perform in helping govern the country as a whole, and who also have good service experience, two candidates with a lot of grassroots experience,” stated Mr. Shanmugam.
The reshuffle comes with the departure of two one-term MPs, making way for the newcomers. Despite their relatively young age, Mr. Shanmugam highlighted their substantial experience in municipal management, with a combined tenure exceeding three decades.
Addressing their readiness, Mr. Shanmugam noted, “There’s confidence that when we say we have looked at them… looked at the potential, looked at their credentials, looked at what the track record is, we think that people will understand and give them that chance.”
Each new team member brings a rich background of service and expertise to the table. Mr. Lam, who has an extensive history of volunteering and leadership in Yishun, stepped down from his role as PAP branch chairman in Hougang earlier this year. He shared his commitment to his hometown, Yishun, and his aspirations to address the community’s needs.
Dr. Syed Harun, with his considerable experience in psychiatry and community service, expressed his eagerness to serve the residents and contribute to the nation. “It has been the way I have lived my life as a student, as a doctor, as a psychiatrist, as a community volunteer in service of others,” he revealed, focusing on his intent to fulfill the community’s aspirations.
Ms. Goh, emerging from a strategic role in Singapore’s Smart Nation and AI initiatives, aims to leverage her experience to address economic issues and job creation against the backdrop of living cost concerns and job security.
Finally, Ms. Lee, with her deep roots in Nee Soon and over 15 years of volunteer work, brings her communication expertise accrued across sectors to serve the GRC’s needs.
In the 2020 General Election, Mr. Shanmugam’s team secured Nee Soon GRC with 61.9% of the votes against the Progress Singapore Party. This year, the PAP team faces the challenge from Red Dot United, led by Secretary-General Ravi Philemon, amid an increased electorate of 151,634 voters in Nee Soon GRC.
Reflecting on his long service and heading into his ninth general election, Mr. Shanmugam and his team are poised for a spirited contest in Nee Soon GRC, underlining the continuous effort to meet the evolving needs of their constituents.
